The Tigers of Dispcipline
Shawn Cartwright, July 2009
“ROAR!”
shouted the class as they sank into a low squat. “ROAAAR” they said even
louder the second time. Suddenly, from the next room, came a “ROAAAR” back
at them. The two classes ROARED back and forth in the otherwise sleepy
hotel. Thirty five nurses (and a couple dozen more next door) had just
learned one of the most fun and beneficial of the Tiger Kung Fu exercises.
They were
quick learners – and enthusiastic. They arrived on time and ready to go
for the start of the 7:30 AM class. One nurse said this was a late start
for most of them compared to their usual schedule. Many of the nurses
trained with all day, doing Qigong and meditation for nine hours. This was
an usually light day for them compared to 12 hours shifts in the hospital.
Not one of them complained when asked to sit down for meditation, even
though the 70’s disco music from down the hall vibrated the walls of the
hotel conference room. They just did it.
The nurses
were attending the American Holistic Nursing Association’s annual
conference, where TCCII directors Dr. Yinong Chong and Mr. Shawn
Cartwright taught a day long credit course and a series of introductory
classes. Holistic nursing is an officially recognized nursing specialty
incorporating integrative medicine concepts and arts, such as traditional
Chinese medicine and Qigong.
This group of
holistically minded nurses was quite special in the way they embodied
discipline and dedication to their art. Aileen, at 94 years young, joined
the entire class, even performing crane kicking with her colleagues! When
doing the Qigong Meridian Opening Set, which involves tapping the entire
body with the palm from head to toe, they slapped hard. Their tiger roar
was tenacious.
After spending
three days with these Tigers of Discipline, we left impressed with their
bright spirits and enthusiastic attitudes. They work hard, practice with
joy, and avoid complaining. These are qualities that all who wish to
undertake the journey of self-transformation and healing should emulate.